Assessment of the Protective Role of Natural Bee Honey Against Sub Chronic Chlorpyrifos Toxicity in Albino Mice: Focus on Brain, Intestines, and Spleen

Abstract

Chlorpyrifos (CPF), a widely used pesticide in agriculture, has been linked to toxicity in the reproductive organs of both humans and animals. The study investigated the toxic effects of chlorpyrifos (CPF) on the brain, spleen, and intestines of albino mice while assessing natural honey's potential to mitigate these effects. Thirty-five adult mice were divided into seven groups to evaluate various doses of CPF and honey, with body weights tracked and organ assessments conducted post-treatment. Hematological analysis revealed significant abnormalities in CPF-exposed groups (G3, G4, and G5), including elevated white blood cell counts and reduced red blood cell counts, hemoglobin levels, and hematocrit values, indicating anemia. However, honey supplementation in Groups 6 and 7 improved these parameters, demonstrating its protective role against CPF-induced hematotoxicity. Oxidative stress markers in CPF-treated mice (Groups 3, 4, and 5) revealed increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, highlighting oxidative damage. Histopathological examinations indicated CPF-induced structural damage across the brain (characterized by neuronal necrosis and degeneration), spleen (demonstrating lymphoid depletion), and intestines (showing villous atrophy). In contrast, the honey-treated groups (Groups 6 and 7) displayed improved tissue integrity and reduced inflammation, underscoring honey's protective effects against CPF toxicity. Overall CPF exposure adversely affected metabolic health, hematological function, and organ integrity in albino mice, while honey exhibited significant protective effects. Honey showed promise in countering CPF toxicity, requiring further research on its protective effects against pesticide health risks.